Corvette ZR1 Achieves Five New Production Car Lap Records Across U.S. Tracks

Published: Wednesday, February 12, 2025, 7:50 [IST]

The Corvette ZR1 has made a significant impact in the performance car arena. During a U.S. track tour, it set five new production car lap records with four General Motors drivers at the helm. These achievements highlight the vehicle's engineering excellence and versatility.

Each driver brought unique skills to the track, showcasing the Corvette ZR1's capabilities. The drivers included Bill Wise, Brian Wallace, Chris Barber, and Aaron Link. They achieved impressive lap times at various tracks across the United States.

At Watkins Glen Long Course, Bill Wise clocked a time of 1:52.7. Brian Wallace recorded 2:08.6 at Road America. Chris Barber achieved 1:22.8 at Road Atlanta. Aaron Link set two records at Virginia International Raceway: 1:47.7 on the Full Course and 2:32.3 on the Grand Course.

The Corvette ZR1 used for these records was equipped with the optional ZTK Performance Package. This package includes features like a high-downforce rear wing and front dive planes made from carbon fiber, enhancing its aerodynamics significantly.

The ZTK Package also features underbody strakes that replace standard components to boost front downforce. The suspension is tuned with stiffer springs and Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2R ZP tires are added for better grip and handling.

Despite these advanced features, future owners don't need professional driving skills to enjoy the car's full potential. The Corvette ZR1 delivers exceptional performance with its 1,064-horsepower engine.

Experienced Drivers Behind the Wheel

The drivers have a combined experience of 65 years in GM Level 6 driving, bringing extensive racing expertise to General Motors. Each driver quickly excelled in GM’s certification program and earned Nürburgring Industry Pool certification.

Tony Roma, Corvette executive chief engineer, stated, "Corvette ZR1 continues to showcase how this nameplate elevates at every corner." He emphasized their comprehensive approach from design to record-setting performances.

Corvette ZR1 Specifications

The Corvette ZR1 with the ZTK Package can reach a top speed of 233 mph on racetracks. It accelerates from 0-60 mph in just 2.3 seconds and completes a quarter-mile in 9.6 seconds, making it unmatched by any production car under $1 million.

The starting price for the Corvette ZR1 is $174,995 for the coupe and $184,995 for the hardtop convertible, including destination freight charges (DFC). Production will begin at GM’s Bowling Green Assembly plant in Kentucky in mid-2025.

General Motors' Vision for Future Transportation

General Motors is committed to advancing transportation technology by building safer and smarter vehicles with lower emissions. Their brands offer a wide range of gasoline-powered vehicles and electric vehicles as they transition towards an all-electric future.

Chevrolet will start accepting orders for the 2025 Corvette ZR1 later this month as they prepare for production next year.